Zhores Alferov

Zhores Ivanovich Alferov was born on March 15, 1930, in Vitebsk, Byelorussian SSR, Soviet Union (now Belarus). He was a renowned physicist and academician who made significant contributions to the field of semiconductor electronics. His pioneering work in semiconductors has had a profound impact on the development of modern electronics, particularly in the areas of laser and solar cells.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Zhores Alferov made groundbreaking inventions in the field of heterostructures in semiconductor materials. These structures are crucial for many modern semiconductor technologies, including laser diodes, solar cells, and LEDs. His work laid the foundation for high-speed and opto-electronic communications technology that we rely on today.

Zhores Alferov was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2000 for developing semiconductor heterostructures used in high-speed and opto-electronics. His work has led to the development of modern telecommunications technology, including mobile phones, fiber optics, and satellites. Together with Herbert Kroemer, he shared half of the prize, the other half being awarded to Jack Kilby.

In 2001, Zhores Alferov was elected as a deputy to the Russian State Duma, where he served as a member of the Communist Party. In this role, he was actively involved in promoting science and education policies. He became a prominent political figure, advocating for scientific advancements and technological education within Russia.

In 2010, Zhores Alferov celebrated his 80th birthday, and he was honored by the Russian scientific community for his lifelong contributions to science and technology. Colleagues and notable scientists celebrated his achievements, and he was acknowledged for his continuous work and influence in the advancement of semiconductor research.

Zhores Alferov publicly criticized the controversial reforms of the Russian Academy of Sciences proposed by the government in 2013. He was vocal in his opposition to these reforms, which he believed would harm scientific research and development in Russia. As a respected member of the scientific community, Alferov's criticisms drew significant attention to the debate.

Zhores Alferov announced his retirement from his position in the State Duma in 2017 to focus on scientific research and education. He cited his desire to dedicate more time to his research and his belief in the importance of nurturing future generations of scientists. His decision was respected and acknowledged by the scientific and political communities.

Zhores Alferov passed away on March 1, 2019, at the age of 88. He left behind a legacy as a pioneering physicist who transformed the field of semiconductor physics. Alferov's contributions continue to influence modern technology and inspire future generations of scientists. His passing was widely mourned in the scientific and political communities worldwide.